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Contract Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Loyola University Chicago

Contract Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$71K - $86K/yr

Reviews, interprets, analyzes, drafts and negotiates federal and industry research, clinical trial ... Contract management, paralegal, or other comparable experience preferred. In addition to meeting ...

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All JobsContract Researcher JobsContract Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL

Contract Researcher information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$116.5K

$169.5K

How much do contract researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract researcher in Chicago, IL is $116,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $158,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract researcher?

Contract Researchers are professionals hired on a temporary basis to conduct specific research projects for organizations, universities, or companies. They typically work under contracts rather than as permanent staff, focusing on tasks such as data collection, analysis, and reporting. Their work can span a variety of fields, including science, social science, market research, and more. Contract Researchers are valued for their expertise and flexibility, often bringing specialized skills to short-term or project-based assignments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a contract researcher?

To thrive as a Contract Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, experience in research methodologies, and a relevant academic background such as a degree in science or social sciences. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), literature databases, and ethical compliance certifications is often required. Excellent written communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or with diverse teams are vital soft skills. These competencies are crucial to delivering high-quality, credible research outcomes that meet client or project objectives.

What are common challenges faced by contract researchers and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract Researchers often work on multiple projects for different clients or organizations, which can lead to tight deadlines and shifting priorities. Managing time efficiently and maintaining clear communication with stakeholders is crucial to ensure deliverables meet expectations. Additionally, adapting quickly to new research topics and methodologies is important, as contract work can span various industries or subject areas. Building strong organizational skills and staying proactive about clarifying project scopes can help overcome these challenges.

What is the difference between Contract Researcher vs Clinical Research Associate?

AspectContract ResearcherClinical Research Associate
Required credentialsTypically a degree in life sciences, relevant certificationsDegree in health sciences, certifications like CRA certification
Work environmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizationsMonitoring clinical trials at sites, data review
Employer and industry usagePharmaceutical, biotech, CROsPharmaceutical companies, CROs, hospitals

Both roles involve clinical research but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities. Contract Researchers often focus on specific research projects or experiments, while Clinical Research Associates primarily monitor and manage clinical trial sites. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the clinical research industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Contract Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Contract Researcher jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Contract Researcher job openings:

Contract Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Researcher job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,511 per year, or $56 per hour.

Lead Research Microbiologist

Merieux NutriSciences

Crete, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Mérieux NutriSciences rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

90th of 121 rated laboratories

Job description

Position Summary

This position is responsible for leading the execution of specialized studies and/or contract research projects in a fast-paced environment. These studies are designed to promote the safety, quality, and nutrition of the global food supply for Merieux NutriSciences clients. This position contributes to defined contract research projects by reviewing schedules and daily scheduled laboratory tasks, setting up new studies, and interpreting results in accordance with required specifications and established procedures.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

      Lead the operational activities of contract research projects to ensure studies are executed in accordance with signed agreement, and Standard Operating Procedures.

      Review product groups, folders prior to start of a study, and review folders at the end of each day to ensure daily tasks for scheduled projects are accurately completed to maintain effective and efficient operations

      Prepare and execute the set up of new research studies in accordance with signed agreement, and Standard Operating Procedures.

      Review results and transfer data as generated from ongoing contract research studies and prepare for next steps of the project.

      Ensure communication of any requirements from the research projects to laboratory personnel as needed. 

      Educate and train departmental personnel on correct procedures and analytical methods to support contract research studies.  Recommend ideas to develop or enhance analytical procedures or processes to improve quality and/or efficiency.

      Collaborates on contract research proposals and reports and manuscripts; drafts and/or collaborates in the development of publications and presentations.

      Responsibility and authority, in conjunction with the Quality Manager and General Manager, to cease specific analyses under their responsibility when evidence from the quality system indicated the process is not in control and the quality of the results is compromised as a result of the non-conformances.

      Maintain knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that is required to complete job responsibilities.Maintain expertise in the field of food science by attending relevant seminars and using available reading material.

      Responsible for reviewing data generated from research studies and adapting the project based on generated data.

      Support corporate quality and continuous improvement process

      Other related duties as assigned.

      At any time, the incumbent must behave and operate in an ethical and Code of Conduct compliant manner.

Communication

      The incumbent has frequent contact with scientists and laboratory management to solve difficulties and provide status reports.  The incumbent has occasional contact with personnel at other company facilities to discuss testing methodologies or specific client requirements.  This position has occasional contact with the client to obtain information on the experimental and provide results during the project life.



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